Updated November 30, 2023
Published July 15, 2021
By Rebecca Gamble
With its sumptuous five-star hotels, wealth of fine-dining restaurants and world-class shopping, Dubai is the ultimate destination for those seeking a luxurious getaway.
Among the shimmering skyscrapers, magnificent yachts and picture-perfect beaches, you’ll also find plenty of theme parks and waterparks for family fun and a warm and rich culture to get to know.
For a mix of it all, try this must-do list for your holiday in Dubai.
1. Visit the world’s tallest building
Dubai likes to do things bigger and better, so start your holiday at the epitome of it all: the Burj Khalifa. Soaring 828m (2,717ft) into the sky, it’s the world’s tallest building. For the best views, book tickets to At The Top, Burj Khalifa SKY where you’ll get a personalised tour of the observation deck and outdoor terrace on Level 148.
You can also take in the vista while sipping signature refreshments in the SKY Lounge, or get an adrenaline rush on the Level 125 observation deck. Here, the brave-hearted can walk over a glass floor with a twist – as you gaze at the cityscape below, the glass will appear to crack under your feet!
2. Indulge at the opulent hotels
Dubai is synonymous with glitz and glamour and nowhere is this more apparent than in its luxurious hotels. One of its most famous is the five-star Burj Al Arab Jumeriah. Designed to look like a billowing sail, it’s a landmark on the Dubai skyline.
Even if you’re not staying in one of its luxe suites, you can still get a taste of its opulence at one of its outstanding restaurants including Al Iwan, where you’ll sample the finest Arabian delicacies. Or grab a window seat and take afternoon tea at the Skyview Bar and Restaurant. On the hotel’s 27th floor, it has prime position overlooking the sparkling Persian Gulf.
3. Explore Old Dubai
Discover more about Dubai’s rich culture by exploring the old town. Take an abra, (a traditional wooden boat) across Dubai Creek and you’ll feel a world away from the glitz and glamour of the main tourist zone.
Stop by The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding to find out about the history of the city and what life was like in times gone by. Then, catapult back into the now with a visit to Dubai’s fabulously buzzy souks.
Gaze at the glittering displays as your wander through the famous Gold Souk; marvel at the beautiful array of silks and embroidered fabrics on offer at the Textile Souk; and for a colourful and aromatic sensory experience, head to Dubai’s Spice Souk. Make your way around the stalls and chat to the vendors who’ll give you ideas on how you can use the exotic spices at home.
4. Go skiing
Want to go skiing in the desert? It could only happen in Dubai! While the temperatures are soaring outside, you can get togged up in skiwear and hit the slopes at the indoor winter wonderland that is Ski Dubai.
You’ll find five slopes, including the world’s first indoor black run, plus a Snow Park, where you can go tobogganing, explore a beautiful indoor ice cave and make snowmen. Afterwards, in true Alpine style, sip hot chocolate at the Avalanche Café’s outdoor terrace.
5. Take a desert safari
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a trip into the dramatic landscape of the Arabian Desert. Enjoy a ride in a 4X4 over the dunes, try your hand at sandboarding and take a camel ride across the sands.
For a truly magical experience, book an unforgettable stay at the luxurious Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa. Unwind in the tranquil resort, set among the lush palm groves of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, as you watch the spectacular sunset. And what better way to end the day than dinner under the stars?
6. Enjoy watersports at Kite Beach
Dubai is world-famous for its beautiful beaches. Long stretches of pristine sands hug the coastline, where activity after activity await. If you enjoy taking part in watersports as well as lazing on a lounger, make a beeline for Kite Beach – a favourite with kite surfers.
Here, you can also try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and beach volleyball or take it up a notch and with a spot of parasailing. You’ll even get unparalleled views of the city.
7. Visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Be mesmerised at Dubai Aquarium, which houses a dazzling array of marine species, including over 400 sharks and rays. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a Shark Dive to get within inches of these great beasts.
Meanwhile, the Underwater Zoo provides an interactive approach to educating visitors about the ecology and sustainability of marine life. You’ll journey through three ecological zones: rainforest, rocky shore and living oceans, and you’ll meet fascinating creatures including lively otters and adorable penguins along the way.
Don’t miss your chance to see King Croc, one of the largest crocodiles in the world.
8. Experience thrilling slides at a water park
Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Then visit Aquaventure Waterpark and take on its exhilarating slides. You’ll plunge nine storeys as you speed down the near-vertical drop of the Leap of Faith slide, and on the Shark Attack, you’ll end in a underwater shark-filled lagoon – the fibre glass tunnel means you’ll enjoy 360 degree views. Afterwards, relax by taking a trip in Dubai’s longest lazy river.
Another classic Dubai waterpark is Wild Wadi, where you’ll find wave pools, surf simulators and speed slides. If you prefer to stay dry, pitch up in a private cabana and let the kids tire themselves out.
9. Take the kids to a theme park
You don’t need to worry about bad weather spoiling a family day out at a theme park when you’re in Dubai. Younger children will adore Legoland Dubai, which is packed with rides and attractions that include the Dragon rollercoaster and the relaxing ‘Boating School’, where children get to steer their own Lego boat. Admire the awesome creations made out of Lego in Miniland then let kids cool off in the Joker Soaker water playground.
At IMG Worlds of Adventure, meanwhile, Marvel and Cartoon Network characters are brought to life with state-of-the-art rides. It spans an area of more than 28 football pitches, so make sure you wear comfy shoes!
10. People-watch in Dubai Marina
One of the city’s liveliest neighbourhoods is Dubai Marina. Take a stroll along Marina Walk, a 7km-long (4.3 miles) palm tree-lined promenade, and indulge in some retail therapy at Dubai Marina Mall.
Then, dine al fresco at one of the fabulous restaurants on the waterfront and marvel at the magnificent yachts moored in the marina with the city’s skyline towering behind.
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